Arsenal are reluctant to confirm a Bosman deal for Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh.

The Daily Mail says yesterday morning, after Bordeaux's elimination from the Champions League, despite another slick finish from Chamakh against Lyon, came renewed reports in France that a four-year deal has been agreed with Arsenal.

By yesterday afternoon Chamakh was being quoted as saying he is 'certain' to leave at the end of the season. It would be undiplomatic for either Arsenal or Bordeaux to confirm a deal although as Chamakh will soon be a free agent, he is allowed to speak to other clubs.

But Arsenal's interest is established.

"He is a player we were close to signing," said Arsene Wenger after last August's window closed.